Question

Based on the context, what does the word 'propagation' most likely mean in this excerpt from Thomas Jefferson's Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom?
a) believing in
b) spreading or promoting
c) breeding or reproducing
d) transmitting through a medium

Answer 1

Answer:

b) Spreading or promoting.

Explanation:

In Thomas Jefferson's "Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom" addressed the need for a separate entity of the church and the state. It also addressed the issue of freedom of conscience, and the need for man to have his own free will regarding his beliefs. This document became the forerunner for the religious freedom rights for the people of America.

In the statute, the word "propagation" is mentioned just twice, "to compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions  which he disbelieves, is sinful and tyrannical" and "to restrain the profession or propagation of principles". And in both phrases, the word signifies the very act of spreading or promoting one's beliefs to others. This is the basis on which Jefferson works for the freedom of religion, and even for the right to not belief in any religion if one wishes to.

Thus, the correct answer is option b.